Chicken Pot Pie With Flaky Crust

Name: Chicken Pot Pie With Flaky Crust
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup peas; 1 cup potatoes, diced; 1/3 cup onion, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup flour; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 6-8 tbsp ice water

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust, especially on chilly evenings. There's something so comforting about the combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all enveloped in a buttery, flaky crust. This dish reminds me of home and family gatherings, where we share laughs and stories around the dinner table. I also find joy in making the crust from scratch; it adds a personal touch that store-bought just can't match. Join me in creating this delightful meal that warms the heart and delights the senses.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:57:34.261Z

When I first made Chicken Pot Pie, I was nervous about getting the crust right, but it turned out to be easier than I thought! The key is to keep your butter cold and work the dough just enough to bring it together without overmixing. I also discovered that letting the crust chill for a bit helps it achieve that perfect flaky texture once baked. It’s magical to see it puff up in the oven, creating a beautiful golden layer.

Over time, I've perfected the filling by adding fresh herbs like thyme and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Using a mix of vegetables, such as peas, carrots, and potatoes, adds color and flavor. I love experimenting with different combinations, but this classic version never fails to impress!

You'll Love This Chicken Pot Pie Because
Irresistible flaky crust that melts in your mouth
Hearty, comforting filling packed with flavor
Perfect for family dinners or cozy weekends

Understanding Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Chicken Pot Pie contributes to the overall flavor and texture. The chicken serves as the protein base, while the carrots and peas add sweetness and vibrant color. Potatoes not only enhance the heartiness but also help to thicken the filling. Important to note is the flour; it acts as a thickening agent when combined with liquid, creating a luxuriously creamy texture. Choosing high-quality chicken broth will elevate the dish significantly, as it infuses the filling with depth and richness.

For those interested in dietary swaps, consider using rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch, adjusting quantities accordingly to achieve the desired thickness. Understand that any changes might slightly alter the taste and texture, so it's crucial to taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Perfecting the Flaky Crust

Creating a flaky crust is all about the method and temperature. Use very cold butter and minimize handling to keep the fat from melting. This is what creates those lovely layers in the crust. When mixing the butter with the flour, look for coarse crumbs that still hold together when squeezed. If you're new to making pie crust, you might find a food processor helpful; just pulse the butter into the flour until you reach the right consistency aptly, watching that it doesn’t become too warm.

Rolling the dough correctly is also key; aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. If you're forming the bottom crust, leave a little overhang to seal with the top crust. Ever had a soggy bottom crust? It often happens when the filling is too moist. To counter this, I recommend allowing the filling to cool slightly before assembling your pie. Additionally, you can brush the bottom crust with a little egg wash or melted butter before adding the filling to create a barrier.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your Chicken Pot Pie is baked to a golden perfection, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the filling to set up and makes for cleaner slices. It's also a wonderful dish to serve family-style; consider garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme for an appealing presentation. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the pie.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, the pie freezes beautifully; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. To reheat, bake it from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 to 60 minutes. If it's pre-thawed, about 20-25 minutes should suffice, and always check for a bubbly filling and an evenly browned top for perfect results.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a mouthwatering Chicken Pot Pie:

For the Pie Filling

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup peas
1 cup potatoes, diced
1/3 cup onion, chopped
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup flour
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Flaky Crust

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
6-8 tbsp ice water

Make sure to have everything measured out and ready to go before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect homemade Chicken Pot Pie:

Make the Filling

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onions until translucent. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking until tender. Stir in the shredded chicken, peas, thyme, and flour, mixing until well combined. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and mix with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until it just comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one disc of dough to fit your pie dish. Pour in the filling and top with the second rolled-out disc. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top for steam to escape. Brush with egg wash if desired.

Bake the Pie

Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Pot Pie fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the filling. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey for a delightful alternative.

Nutritional Boosts and Variations

For an extra nutritional boost, consider incorporating mushrooms or spinach into the filling. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also introduce additional vitamins and minerals. If you want to up the creativity, add a touch of white wine while cooking the vegetables for a hint of acidity that cuts through the creaminess. This can elevate the flavor profile and add depth to your pot pie.

You can also experiment with herbs; feel free to swap out the thyme for rosemary or sage to suit your taste preferences. Each herb offers its unique characteristics, shifting the overall essence of the dish. If you’re looking to make it spicy, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your pie crust isn't as flaky as desired, it may be due to overworking the dough or using warm ingredients. Avoid these pitfalls by keeping everything cold and handling the dough as little as possible. In addition, ensure your butter is properly cubed rather than too soft; you want those small cold bits of butter to create steam during baking, which leads to a flaky texture.

Should you encounter issues with the filling being too runny, you can thicken it by continuing to cook it on low heat until it reduces further, or by mixing a bit of cornstarch with cold water before stirring it back into the pot. Keep an eye on it while simmering and adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain balance in flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to assemble the pie.

→ What kind of chicken should I use?

Rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience, but you can also use cooked chicken breast or thighs.

→ Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. When ready, bake from frozen, adding additional time as needed.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Pot Pie?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables pair perfectly with Chicken Pot Pie, adding some balance to the meal.